A common theme in conversations with our guests on the Better Every Shift podcast is the importance of getting out of your comfort zone. This could mean having a difficult conversation with a member of your team, promoting within your organization, physically challenging yourself to exercise or compete in a marathon, or any host of actions that lead to what we could call a “positive discomfort.” From our more than 100 podcast episodes over the past two years, I have tried to embrace advice like this from our exceptionally talented leaders so I can really “walk the walk,” getting out of my comfort zone for my own personal development. So, when I was asked if I wanted to fly down to Dallas to participate in a Tough Mudder 5K event to honor first responders, of course, I had to honor my commitment to getting uncomfortable.
What is a Tough Mudder race?
Tough Mudder is an intense endurance event designed to challenge participants physically and mentally through a series of obstacles that test strength, teamwork and resilience. Participants navigate the 5K race consisting of various terrains, from mud pits to steep hills, all while overcoming obstacles like wall climbs, electric shocks and fire jumps.
How Tough Mudder events can help first responders
Competing in the Tough Mudder helped me be a better responder. First, just putting a date on the calendar motivated me to get my butt in the gym to train and run. Second, participating a Tough Mudder not only hones physical fitness but also builds mental endurance and resilience. It serves as a rigorous training ground to prepare for the unpredictable nature of the emergency scene. I also loved how the event fostered a sense of community, as I found myself helping and encouraging other participants along the trail, just as they encouraged and helped me.
Here’s more about my Tough Mudder experience.
Event details
- Location: Granbury, Texas
- Distance: 5K
- Number of obstacles: 12+
- Weather conditions: Very hot and sunny!
Most formidable Tough Mudder obstacle
The Ape Hanger was the most challenging Tough Mudder obstacle I encountered. In this challenge, you swing across a series of suspended monkey bars or rings over a water pit, which tests your upper body strength, grip and endurance. Many find this obstacle particularly challenging due to the physical exertion required and the fear of falling into the water below.
I was able to complete this obstacle by using some creative thinking. I watched many participants reaching for the rings without using their momentum to swing. The obstacle got much easier as I figured out how to use the rings to build momentum. I also used my feet to rock the next ring toward me. These subtle adjustments paved the way to completing the obstacle.
Best moment of the race
The Wall Climb is a challenging Tough Mudder obstacle that tests strength, teamwork and climbing ability. Typically, it features tall walls ranging from 8 to 30 feet or higher. Participants use their physical strength and agility to scale these walls, which can be daunting, especially when combined with fatigue from the preceding course.
The challenge lies not only in the height of the walls but also in the technique required to successfully navigate them. Participants often need to rely on teammates for support, utilizing their shoulders or hands to help boost each other up. This encourages camaraderie and highlights the event’s emphasis on teamwork. The Wall Climb can be particularly intimidating for those who struggle with heights or lack upper body strength.
When I got to the wall, a line of people struggling to navigate the first section. I came across a father with his three kids; they were participating together but having difficulty getting past this first part of the wall. I could sense the father’s frustration as the kids were not responding to his instructions. We can all relate to this feeling, especially if you have kids or a significant other. I showed his daughter a technique that used the rope just above the wall as a handle so she could use her upper body and lower body together to get over the wall. As she pulled and succeeded, I could see the confidence in her brothers rise and the frustration in the father’s eyes diminish. They all quickly navigated the wall and continued to the finish. That was a great feeling!
Mental vs. physical toughness
Competing in a Tough Mudder event requires a unique blend of mental resilience and physical strength. As you would expect, you need a solid baseline of fitness to tackle obstacles that demand upper body strength, agility and cardiovascular endurance. However, it’s the mental game that often separates the successful participants from those who struggle. The various obstacles can evoke doubt and exhaustion. Mental resilience helps competitors push through discomfort, maintain focus and overcome the psychological barriers that may come up during the race. Positive self-talk, visualization and a strong support system of teammates can enhance your mental fortitude. This transfers to life as well – the more comfortable you get with being uncomfortable, the more growth you achieve.
Are you ready?
As we near a new year, I challenge you to get uncomfortable, put a date on the calendar, and compete in an event like a Tough Mudder or a Spartan Race. These endurance challenges push you beyond your limits, fostering personal growth and resilience. They also cultivate mental toughness, camaraderie and a sense of achievement that can inspire you in all areas of your life.
